President Hugo Chavez’s expulsion of Israel’s ambassador and embassy personnel in Caracas once again demonstrates the very real threat the Venezuelan leader poses to the region. Chavez’s efforts undermine diplomatic relations and set a dangerous precedent. Chavez says the move is a response to Israel’s military operation in the Gaza Strip. Instead of using his influence to promote peace, Chavez and the Venezuelan government have sided with the terrorist group Hamas.

Chavez’s predictable stand against Israel is a continuation of his long and dangerous partnership with Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, who has vowed to destroy Israel. Chavez further shows his cards by his cynical call upon the Jews of Venezuela, and all Jews, to protest against Israel. Asking the Jewish community in Venezuela to go against the government of Israel is an invitation to violence against the Jews of Venezuela. Chavez is inserting himself into the decisions of a democratic nation.

Israel began its military action in the Gaza Strip on December 27 in an effort to stop Hamas rocket fire into Israel, after Hamas ended a six-month cease-fire on December 19.

The outrageous move to expel embassy officials is a power play that does not belong in a civil society. To expel diplomatic leaders from a democratic country is an empty exhibition of bravado.